Mombasa Marine National Park is situated off the coast of Mombasa, Kenya, and is part of the larger Mombasa Marine National Reserve. The park spans an area of approximately 10 square kilometers (about 4 square miles) and is adjacent to the bustling port city of Mombasa.

Established in 1986, Mombasa Marine National Park is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and clear waters. It is a key destination for marine tourism and conservation, offering opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and marine education.

Accessible: Mombasa Marine National Park is easily accessible via various travel options. By air, visitors can fly from Nairobi to Mombasa, with the park just a short drive from the city center. For those opting to drive, the journey from Nairobi to Mombasa typically takes about 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Additionally, some tour operators provide boat transfers directly to the park from coastal areas in Mombasa, offering a unique approach to reaching this beautiful marine destination.

Attractions and Features:

• Coral Reefs: The well-preserved coral reefs that host a wide variety of marine species. These reefs are among the most accessible in Kenya, making them popular for snorkeling and diving.
• Marine Life: Home to a diverse array of marine creatures. Common species include parrotfish, butterflyfish, surgeonfish, and angelfish. The park is also a habitat for sea turtles, such as the green turtle and hawksbill turtle.
• Seagrass Beds: Seagrass beds play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem. These beds provide feeding grounds for sea turtles and support a variety of marine life.
• Mangroves: Along the park’s coastline, you can find mangrove forests that are vital for coastal protection and provide nursery grounds for many fish species. The mangroves also support various bird species and offer unique ecological value.
• Birdwatching: Good spot for birdwatching, with opportunities to see seabirds, waders, and other coastal birds. Species often spotted include the white-cheeked tern and the roseate tern.

Activities:

• Snorkeling and Diving: Great snorkeling and diving spots. Explore the colorful coral reefs and observe the diverse marine life in clear, warm waters.
• Glass-Bottom Boat Rides: For those who prefer to stay dry while still viewing the underwater world, glass-bottom boat rides are available. These boats provide a unique perspective of the marine environment without getting into the water.
• Fishing: While the park itself restricts fishing to protect marine life, sport fishing is available in the surrounding waters outside the park boundaries.
• Marine Education: Visitors can learn about marine conservation and the importance of coral reefs through educational programs and guided tours.

Conservation efforts

Key conservation efforts include ongoing monitoring of coral reefs and marine life to assess their health, alongside community engagement initiatives that promote sustainable fishing practices. Anti-poaching measures are implemented to curb illegal fishing and protect endangered species, while habitat restoration projects, such as coral replanting, aim to revive damaged ecosystems. Educational programs raise awareness among locals and tourists about the importance of marine conservation, ensuring the long-term preservation of the park’s rich biodiversity and supporting local livelihoods.